People are jerks! I have 4 kids. My oldest was a real handful. He would have screaming, kicking, biting, throw down fits in stores. I would sit on the floor and bear hug him until he calmed down. Keeping in mind that my kids were born close together. 4 in 4 years. I am pretty outspoken so I had no problem calling people out for staring or being rude. As if it isn't hard enough to be handling 4 kids, 1 of which is having a meltdown without people criticizing your for it.

My oldest is now 11 and neurotypical. He's a great kid. Unless a parent is being abusive, I will get vocal and defend them. Kids push boundaries and you have no idea what is going on and thus no right to judge.

And yes, kind comments as a mom do help. I got those too. It's nice to have someone in your corner.